If you are a pilgrim seeking to explore some of India’s most sacred sites, Uttarakhand is an unmissable destination. With its majestic mountains, sparkling lakes and ancient temples, this state has long been revered as the abode of God for millennia.
Uttarakhand is home to some of the most revered religious destinations, such as Badrinath, Kedarnath, Prayag and Yamunotri among others. Each char dham (holy site) is associated with an aspect of Hinduism and draws pilgrims year-round.
Top Religious Places in Uttrakhand: #1 Badrinath
Badrinath, India’s most revered char dham of Hindu faith, is revered for its spiritual significance. Legend has it that two incarnations of Vishnu, Nara and Naryana meditated here during their ascension to heaven. This captivating town also offers breathtaking views of Nilkantha mountain peak and surrounding valleys.
# 2 Kedarnath
Kedarnath is one of the most revered destinations for Hindu pilgrims and is believed to be Lord Shiva’s abode, commonly referred to as ‘Maha-Purana’ (The Great Book). A journey to this sacred hill shrine will bring you face-to-face with one of the world’s most beloved deities.
#3 Rudranath
Situated high up in the Garhwal Himalayas, Rudranath is a popular trekking and religious attraction. It also houses one of the major temples on the Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit.
#4 Tugnath
Devoted to Lord Shiva, Tugnath is a popular pilgrimage destination located at the base of Neelkantha mountain peak and known for its breathtaking views and natural splendor.
# 5 Kasar Devi
Kasar, situated near Almora, is renowned for its iconic Kasar Devi temple – also referred to as the ‘Crown Jewel of Uttarakhand’. A visit here will surely instil feelings of calm and serenity within visitors’ minds.
#2 Bageshwar
Bageshwar is a well-known religious destination in Uttarakhand and attracts plenty of tourists. Situated at the confluence of Gomti and Sarju rivers, it’s ideal for spiritual seekers. There are numerous temples here such as Baghnath, Baijnath, Sri Hari and Gauri Udiyar which draw both locals and visitors alike.
#4 Jageshwar
Jageshwar is a small town in Uttarakhand that boasts over 124 temples – both large and small – which draw pilgrims from all over the world. These well-preserved structures attract worshipers from around the globe.
# 6 Pandukeshwar
Established by King Pandu, one of the Pandavas from Mahabharata epic, this small village in Chamoli region of Uttarakhand is renowned as a pilgrimage site. The ghats at this holy site are also very holy and draw thousands of pilgrims annually.
Some of the other popular attractions to visit in Haridwar include Har-ki-Pauri, Chandi Devi Temple, Maya Devi Temple and Mansa Devi Temple. These holy sites offer visitors an unforgettable sight as priests perform daily Ganga Aarti for all visitors – truly an enchantment.